Worshippers Pray at Delhi’s Historic Race Course Mosque Despite Restrictions

Worshippers Pray at Delhi’s Historic Race Course Mosque Despite Restrictions
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Worshippers entered Delhi’s century-old Race Course Mosque and performed Zuhr prayers despite access restrictions, disconnected electricity and water supplies, and an order from the Land and Development Office (L&DO) directing the imam to vacate the premises within six days over alleged unauthorised occupation.

The mosque’s utilities were disconnected on October 7, while security personnel initially prevented worshippers from entering. Imam Mohammed Harun maintains that the mosque and its adjoining graveyard are legally recognised heritage and Waqf properties, listed in the Delhi Administration’s 1977 Gazette and the New Delhi Municipal Council’s heritage register.

The Delhi Waqf Board has since written to the L&DO seeking protection for the mosque and restoration of essential services. Separately, a delegation from Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind submitted a memorandum to Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, requesting a review of the property’s legal status and unrestricted access for worshippers.

Political leaders and Muslim organisations have criticised the authorities’ actions and called for urgent intervention to protect the historic religious site. The dispute comes amid broader concerns over restrictions and demolition actions affecting Muslim places of worship in Delhi.